Damien O’Connor: NZ united on global trade
When it comes to international trade, politicians from all sides of the aisle are united, says Labour's trade spokesman Damien O'Connor.
OPINION: Under fire Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor has now conceded in a recent media interview that, “The Government hasn’t been stellar at communicating its message to the farming sector”.
The Hound reckons this blindingly obvious admission would have to be the understatement of the decade.
Meanwhile, the jungle drums are also beating that his near 30-year political career may be soon coming to an end – either by design or default.
Although reluctant to confirm he’s pulling stumps on politics, in the same piece when asked whether he’d be keen to stay in government should Labour remain in power after next year’s election, O’Connor said, “That’s in the hands of the Prime Minister.”
Actually, it will be in the hands of West Coast voters who may very well give him the elbow next year and save Jacinda the job.
The Government has announced changes to stock exclusion regulations which it claims will cut unnecessary costs and inflexible rules while maintaining environmental protections.
Technology and the use of artificial intelligence are increasingly part of life, both on the farm and off it.
Ashleigh Gordon and Leilani Lobb have been named as the two finalists for Dairy Women's Network's (DWN) 2026 Regional Leader of the Year Award.
Animal and Plant Health New Zealand (APHANZ) says the approval of a new fungicide seed treatment is a positive, however growers will be hoping the final approval is completed ahead of the spring season.
North Canterbury farmer Adam Williamson has been appointed DairyNZ's associate director for 2026-27.
Fonterra farmers are set for a multi-billion-dollar payout this week.

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